Abstract
In this paper the authors have set out to show how changed concepts in the design and construction of bulk liquid carrying road vehicles can assist towards more efficient and economical transportation.
Avenues for increasing tank truck efficiency are outlined, and consideration is given to some of the factors involved. An indication is provided of the kind of savings that could accrue from achieving a higher load factor and better average speed over the road. Comparison of these savings suggests that improved load factor should be given the greater emphasis.
Possibilities for securing higher payload capacity and more effective vehicle layout by using newer materials and new techniques in construction are illustrated by reference to recent prototype vehicle development in the United Kingdom and Germany.
Some details are given of strain-gauging undertaken on the prototypes to prove the tank design and to ascertain the feasibility of further structural refinements and weight-saving in this assembly.
The need for a reorientation of thinking on chassis component weights as a further prerequisite for higher vehicle efficiency is emphasized, and future trends of development having component weight reduction as a major consideration are suggested.
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